How to Implement HR Policies

Human Resource policies ensure a safe, nondiscriminatory workplace. Required policies clearly define official company codes of conduct. Written policies regarding dress codes, compliance with local regulations and operational procedures establish organizational consistency. Before implementing the policies throughout your company, be sure you have obtained all the appropriate executive and legal approvals.

Distribute your policy documents in an appropriate form, for example, by email, or make them available on your company's intranet website. Ensure your employees know where to find the policies in the event that they need to review them. Update the documents regularly.

Include policy training in new employee orientation programs so that new hires will clearly understand what is expected of them.

Schedule small group meetings to regularly review the policies with employees, allowing them the opportunity to ask questions. Clearly define policies such as Internet usage, email communication and cell phone usage. Similarly, changes to health insurance eligibility or other employee benefits should also be communicated.

Establish work standards to ensure compliance to safety rules or regulations. Ensure employees understand the policies (particularly if there are legal or safety ramifications if the policies are not adhered to consistently) by conducting follow-up testing. For example, verify employees are using machinery appropriately.

Provide a mechanism for employees to acknowledge receipt of the policies. For example, provide a form stating "I acknowledge receipt of and understanding of these policies, effective now until further notice" and ask that employees sign and return it to you.

References

"Transforming HR: How to Get Shared Services, Outsourcing and Business Partnering to Deliver What You Want;" Ian Hunter and Jane Saunders; 2005